Oakland Nature Preserve

Extensive, ongoing restoration efforts at this preserve on the southern end of Lake Apopka make this a great destination for woodland species, raptors and waterbirds. Seven short, color-coded walking trails allow you to choose from a variety of upland and wetland habitats. From the parking lot, take the boardwalk down to a covered pavilion on the lake. Along the way, keep an eye out for Pileated Woodpeckers and migratory wood-warblers in spring and fall. Scope the lake Limpkin, Purple Gallinule, Wood Duck, Least Bittern and American Bittern (winter). Bald Eagles nest here along with Swallow-tailed Kites (spring/summer). Upland trails wind through hardwood hammocks, flatwoods and sandhills. The “green” hammock loop trail and the beginning of the “red” trail are good for spring and fall migrants, including Yellow-throated Vireo, Swainson’s Thrush and Veery. In winter, Painted Buntings come to the feeder on the green trail. Check the yellow, blue, orange, and white trails for Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, and Common Ground-Dove. On the preserve’s south side, the orange trail has an interpretive pavilion and trailhead connecting to a 19-mile, hike-and-bike trail known as the West Orange Trail. This paved trail runs from Oakland to Apopka and offers alternative transportation to the park, plus added fitness benefits! Bike racks are provided at the West Orange Trail pavilion and at the parking lot at the end of Machete Trail. Bikes are not permitted on the preserve walking trails, however.